Dina Vardal

Dina Vardal grew up in Joliet, Illinois, in a household that proudly carried Greek and Italian traditions. Her father was from the Greek island of Mykonos, and her mother came from Ferrara, Italy. Together, they built a family rooted in strong values of faith, culture, and perseverance.

Her parents also became part of Joliet’s community fabric through their work. From 1982 to 1989, her mother, Danira, ran Mykonos Gyros, a family restaurant that became a neighborhood gathering place. Her father, Denis, co-founded Vardal Engineering with his brother in 1958, and the company remains in family hands to this day. These family endeavors demonstrated resilience and gave Dina early examples of hard work and community commitment.

Academic Path and Early Goals

Drawn to public service from a young age, Dina enlisted in the Army National Guard at 17. While serving, she also pursued higher education. She began her studies at Joliet Junior College, earning an Associate in Applied Science degree in Law Enforcement in 1990.

She continued at Western Illinois University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude in 1992 with a bachelor’s degree in Law Enforcement Administration and a minor in Accounting. She served as President of the Law Enforcement and Justice Administration group, gaining leadership experience and recognition for her dedication.

Later in life, Dina returned to the classroom while balancing her family and career. In 2007, she earned a Master’s degree in Organizational Development from Benedictine University, reinforcing her lifelong commitment to education.

Law Enforcement Career

For more than two decades, Dina served as a law enforcement officer, where she built a reputation for professionalism and strength under pressure. She became a certified SWAT officer, completing the rigorous training required to take on high-stakes responsibilities.

She also worked as a firearms instructor, leading concealed carry courses and promoting safe and responsible use of firearms. Beyond technical instruction, Dina dedicated herself to training recruits, guiding them through the challenges of law enforcement. Her ability to remain calm, composed, and supportive made her a trusted mentor in the field.

Military Service and Aviation Work

Alongside her police career, Dina Vardal spent 22 years serving in the Army National Guard. Stationed at Midway Airport with the 106th Aviation Unit, she worked as a helicopter mechanic on several aircraft, including the OH-58, UH-1H, UH-60 Blackhawk, and CH-47 Chinook.

Her skills earned her added responsibility as a crew chief, where she supervised maintenance teams. She also served as her unit’s physical fitness coordinator, helping fellow soldiers meet military standards and remain in peak condition. In addition to technical and fitness roles, Dina created morale-building traditions, organizing military balls and holiday gatherings that strengthened bonds within her unit.

Her service included overseas tours in Panama and Germany, which broadened her worldview and helped her build friendships with soldiers across the globe.

New Role as Educator

After retiring from both law enforcement and the military, Dina shifted her energy toward education. She became a substitute teacher in the New Lenox School District, working with children from grades 1 to 8.

Her structured approach, reliability, and calm demeanor made her a steady presence in the classroom. Teaching provided her with a new sense of purpose, giving back to the next generation by supporting students’ growth and learning.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond her professional and community service, Dina finds joy in activities that reflect her heritage and love of life. She travels regularly, with annual trips to Greece that allow her to stay connected to her roots while finding rest and renewal. She also enjoys scuba diving, exploring new perspectives and experiences beneath the water’s surface.

At home, she loves gardening, cultivating flowers, vegetables, and plants throughout the year. Cooking is another passion—her traditional Greek meals and cookies are favorites among friends and family.

Dina has also enjoyed sports. She played tennis at both Joliet Junior College and Western Illinois University, staying active and engaged during her college years. She was featured in her school newspaper and participated actively in campus life, making lasting memories through both athletics and academics.

Community Service and Volunteerism

Dina has always believed in giving back to those in need. She has volunteered with Meals on Wheels, delivering meals and companionship to those who might otherwise be isolated. She has also supported her local food bank, assisted at the NAWS animal shelter, and participated in parish activities at All Saints Greek Orthodox Church.

Her contributions, whether significant commitments or small acts of kindness, reflect her belief that service to others is one of the most essential parts of life.

Family: Her Greatest Role

While Dina’s professional and military accomplishments are impressive, she considers her family her most outstanding achievement. In 2022, she married Noe DeLeon Jr. at All Saints Greek Orthodox Church in Joliet, celebrating their union in faith and tradition.

Her daughter, Danira, born in 2013, is her proudest joy. Dina Vardal describes motherhood as the most meaningful role of her life, calling her daughter the best gift she has ever received.